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Prepare yourselves for the Grandaddy of inspiration (emphasis on Grand) captured by averyhouse who partnered up with Bliss Weddings & Events for an all you can dream of Engagement party extravaganza. We want to throw on our Wellies and cozy on up to the fire for some S’mores roasting and golden apple bobbing. Doesn’t that sound fab? It’s taking the token bonfire to a whole new level of cozy cool. We’re talking a muddling bar (pure genius), a S’mores roasting station as well as a tablescape that stopped us dead. in. our. tracks. There is many a great idea tucked away in the details of this inspiration shoot that are ripe for the picking. Whether you want an engagement bash just like this one or see some great details that you want to incorporate into your upcoming wedding, it’s all easily translated into each and every wedding related fête. Be sure to stop by the gallery for so much more.

From Stevi of averyhouse… With the idea of producing a fanciful collection of parties that follow the progression of wedding-related celebrations a couple encounters throughout their engagement, Renny Pedersen and Kara Superfine of Bliss Weddings and Events are taking readers on a year-long journey with our dreamy faux couple, Charlotte and William, joining them from fabulous féte to féte.

We start with the engagement party, thrown by the couple’s best friends. After getting engaged at the tail end of summer, this casual party was hosted on a chilly autumn day in the newly unveiled Pullman Barn on the grounds of the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Guests were greeted with a cocktail hour set with an autumnal muddling bar, allowing guests to chose their liqueur and unique enhancements. When guests were welcomed to the intimate dinner held inside the barn, they found their seats with the aid of labeled gift baskets, doubling as place cards. The backside of the cards detailed the featured items For a Lazy Sunday Morning. With items such as strong coffee, fresh scones, apple-honey butter, a thermos of cider and a luxurious throw to snuggle up with — guests knew the party would last until the wee hours and this collection of goodies would be most appreciated the next day. After dinner, guests were encouraged to roam the grounds of the barn. Whimsical activities such as apple croquet, bobbing in bubbly, and mad libs tuckered guests out. Only then did guests find a cozy respite around the firepit with blankets and pillows paired with a gourmet sweet and savory s’mores, cordials and cider bar. After a wonderful evening of celebration, Charlotte and William were full of heartfelt thanks to all of their dearest friends and family for the perfect start to their year of festivities.